Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde Defends Salman Khan Amid RSS Event Controversy
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has issued a robust defense of Bollywood superstar Salman Khan following criticism of the actor's recent attendance at the '100 Years of Sangh Journey: New Horizons' event in Mumbai. Shinde emphasized that Khan's presence should not be politicized, stating it was a cultural participation rather than a controversial act.
Shinde Questions Basis of Criticism, Highlights Khan's Indian Identity
Speaking to ANI, Shinde directly challenged the controversy surrounding Salman Khan's attendance. "Salman Khan attending the RSS event or not attending it — what kind of question is this, and isn't Salman Khan an Indian citizen?" Shinde asserted. He elaborated on Khan's cultural credentials, noting, "Salman Khan is an Indian citizen; he has Lord Ganesha at his home, does everything, respects our culture, and his family does too."
The Deputy Chief Minister further clarified his position, stating, "I don't see anything wrong with Salman Khan attending the program of Mohan Bhagwat. It is appropriate, and since he is a Mumbai resident, we shouldn't politicise his attendance at a Mumbai event." Shinde's comments come as some political quarters questioned the appropriateness of a Bollywood celebrity attending an RSS-organized gathering.
RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Praises Salman Khan's Cultural Influence
At the same event, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat spoke extensively about Salman Khan's significant impact on young people and popular culture. Bhagwat highlighted how the actor's style has become a trend among students, saying, "College students copy Salman Khan's fashion. When asked why, they say they don't know. Salman is doing it."
Bhagwat connected this influence to broader social values, suggesting, "The context of good values in society should become a fashion." His remarks positioned Khan not just as an entertainment figure but as a cultural influencer whose choices resonate with India's youth demographic.
Prominent Bollywood Personalities Attend Event
The gathering attracted numerous notable figures from the Indian film industry, creating a significant cultural moment. Attendees included:
- Ranbir Kapoor
- Vicky Kaushal
- Karan Johar
- Mohit Suri
- Om Raut
- Poonam Dhillon
- Hema Malini
This diverse representation from Bollywood underscored the event's cultural significance beyond political interpretations.
Salman Khan's Upcoming Professional Projects
On the professional front, Salman Khan is currently preparing for the release of Battle of Galwan, scheduled for theatrical release in April. However, industry rumors suggest the film might be postponed to August, potentially creating a box office clash with Sunny Deol's Lahore 1947.
Battle of Galwan is produced by Aamir Khan and features Preity Zinta in a significant role. The film represents Khan's continued engagement with major cinematic projects despite the ongoing public discussions about his personal appearances and cultural engagements.
The controversy surrounding Salman Khan's RSS event attendance highlights the ongoing intersection between Bollywood celebrity culture and political discourse in India. While some critics view such appearances through political lenses, defenders like Deputy Chief Minister Shinde emphasize cultural participation and individual rights as fundamental aspects of democratic expression.
